'We are the world's smallest': 13-seat Stratford, Ont. cinema recognized for world record
A tiny cinema in Stratford, Ont. has been recognized by Guinness World Records.
The Little Prince Cinema on Wellington Street is the smallest purpose-built cinema in the world.
“There was a point when we were worried we would even make it this far, be open even throughout COVID, let alone receive this recognition. So it’s huge. It feels like a reward just for surviving,” said owner Leigh Cooney.
Cooney said he and his business partner applied to Guinness in 2020, but only found out they were given the official title this year.
The Little Prince is about 16 square metres and has 13 seats.
The 13 seats at The Little Prince Cinema (Heather Senoran / CTV Kitchener)
“I can confirm that Cabiria Cine-Café [in Brazil] was the previous record-holder with 24 square metres,” said Amanda Marcus with Guinness World Records North America, Inc.
It’s not just a small theatre, it’s a customized experience.
“If it’s a movie from the 70s, we try to do previews from the 70s and commercials from the 70s,” Cooney said. “We have a catalogue of somewhere in the range of 30,000 movies going as far back as early 20th century, like silent films right up until the last three to six months ago.”
The lounge/lobby area is decorated with movie memorabilia and other throwbacks like a retro arcade machine Cooney helped build.
The arcade in the lobby at The Little Prince Cinema (Heather Senoran / CTV Kitchener)
Cooney said he has always been fascinated with the “golden era” of movies and unique indie theatres. The name of his business pays homage to Princess Cinemas in Waterloo. He visited that theatre a lot growing up and still does.
The theatre is available for private bookings only, partly to promote a safer space.
The small screen at The Little Prince Cinema (Heather Senoran / CTV Kitchener)
“Come in with a group of friends and then you can talk through the movie. Laugh as much as you want,” said Trevor Worsell, who owns a business nearby.
Worsell said he was impressed with his last visit and hopes the Guinness recognition means more business on his street.
Private bookings range from $125 to $265. The more expensive rate would be for a party, often for kids, which would include soft drinks and popcorn.
“To be able to official say we are the world’s smallest, it’s a novel thing, especially in a cultural town like Stratford,” said Cooney.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Israel attacks Iran, Reuters sources say; drones reported over Isfahan
Israel has attacked Iran, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters, as Iranian state media reported early on Friday that its forces had destroyed drones, days after Iran launched a retaliatory drone strike on Israel.
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer denied bail after being charged with killing Canadian couple
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer, one of two men charged in the killings of a Canadian couple in Dominica, has been denied bail.
Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say
Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering 'moderate to severe' levels of subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Judge says 'no evidence fully supports' murder case against Umar Zameer as jury starts deliberations
The judge presiding over the trial of a man accused of fatally running over a Toronto police officer is telling jurors the possible verdicts they may reach based on the evidence in the case.
Health Canada to change sperm donor screening rules for men who have sex with men
Health Canada will change its longstanding policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. The federal health agency has adopted a revised directive removing the ban on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, effective May 8.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
Sports columnist apologizes for 'oafish' comments directed at Caitlin Clark. The controversy isn't over
A male columnist has apologized for a cringeworthy moment during former University of Iowa superstar and college basketball's highest scorer Caitlin Clark's first news conference as an Indiana Fever player.
'Shopaholic' author Sophie Kinsella reveals brain cancer diagnosis
Sophie Kinsella, the best-selling author behind the 'Shopaholic' book series, has revealed that she is receiving treatment for brain cancer.